Gove in at Defra

One of the biggest names in British politics, Michael Gove, has been appointed as Secretary of State at Defra in a surprise return to frontline politics.

Mr Gove, who failed to make Theresa May's first Cabinet after a failed leadership attempt, is a former Education and Justice Secretary and falls squarely into the 'political heavyweight' category.

He replaces Andrea Leadsom, who was sacked by Mrs May after a largely uninspiring stint at Defra. She was in the post for less than a year.

Mr Gove arrives in the role at a critical time for Defra, a Department whose budget has come under pressure at a time it is being asked to formulate and implement a new policy for UK agriculture outside of the EU. 

For more information and reaction, see Pig World